From Algorithms to Intimacy: AI and Mating in the Digital Age with Dr. Justin Garcia, PhD

From Algorithms to Intimacy: AI and Mating in the Digital Age with Dr. Justin Garcia, PhD

From Harvesting Happiness Podcasts

February 26, 2026

About this episode

This episode discusses the impact of AI on dating and relationships, particularly among Gen Z, highlighting the tension between technological efficiency and the need for vulnerability.

*This is part-two of a two-part conversation Recent Kinsey Institute research highlights that nearly half of single Gen Z adults now utilize algorithms to optimize their online dating profiles. Yet, they say it erodes their trust if they discover the other person uses it too. This paradox reveals a growing tension in the science of love and relationships: while we crave the efficiency of technology, we remain biologically wired for raw, uncurated vulnerability. **This episode explores human sexuality and is intended for mature audiences. To discover what lies ahead in the future of dating, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with Justin R. Garcia, an award-winning researcher, educator, and Executive Director of Kinsey Institute Research. Justin continues the conversation with staggering statistics about AI usage in dating apps, expectations of Gen Z’ers when it comes to courtship, and the erosion of trust and transparency in the digital age. Like what you're hearing? WANT MORE SOUND IDEAS FOR DEEPER THINKING? Check out More Mental Fitness by Harvesting Happiness bonus content available exclusively on https://harvestinghappiness.substack.com/ and…

People in this episode

Host: Lisa Cypers Kamen

Guest: Dr Justin Garcia

Topics covered

  • AI in dating
  • Gen Z relationships
  • human sexuality
  • trust in technology

Keywords

  • online dating
  • Kinsey Institute
  • courtship
  • digital age

Mentioned in this episode

Products: dating apps

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